Nova Scotia Police said they are looking for the suspect who attacked a person with an axe in Pictou County Monday morning.

The alleged assault occurred at a home on Greenwood Street in Thorburn, Nova Scotia, just before 9 a.m. Police said one person was seriously injured and the victim is known to the suspect.

The police also identified the suspect as 61-year-old John Douglas Chris and issued a photo of him.

Thorburn residents are advised to shelter in place and an emergency alert has been issued in Pictou, Antigonish, and Colchester counties.

The attacker is described as being five feet 10 inches tall, with gray hair and blue eyes. Police added that he may also have been wearing a gray long-sleeve shirt and shorts.

Police said Chris fled into the woods after the attack and is believed to be on foot. They also ask citizens to stay away from the area while they search for him.